Activity 5.

5b CAD Model Features Part 2

Introduction
Two dimensional sketches are nice, but parts have three-dimensional (3D) qualities that sketches can only imitate and communicate in an abstract manner. CAD 3D solid modeling programs can bridge the gap between 2D representations and 3D artifacts by providing an electronic representation of an object that can be moved and rotated so that all aspects of the object can be viewed. A sketch in a 3D Computer Aided Design (CAD) solid modeling program serves as the foundation for a three-dimensional feature. Some three-dimensional features require a sketch from which the 3D form is created. Other features do not require a sketch, but instead require a three-dimensional form. In this activity you will learn about and use additional tools and features within a CAD program to enhance your knowledge of the capabilities of the program and improve your skill in producing 3D solid models.

Equipment
Computer with 3D CAD modeling software

Procedure
In order to effectively use a CAD program as a design tool, a designer must know what model features are available and how they work. This activity will help you to understand and utilize the feature tools that are common to most CAD programs. Make a new folder called CAD Practice. Assign the project folder in Inventor to this folder and save the three pieces from this activity to this folder. Mirror Sketch Tools These are suggested tools for this activity Line Rectangle Circle Geometric Constraints Construction Line Mirror Fillet
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Feature Tools These are suggested tools for this activity Extrude Rectangular Pattern Fillet Hole Mirror I. Create a sketch similar to that shown below (dont worry about dimensions, just make it look similar). CAD programs allow the designer to mirror images across lines, which is a useful tool when designing parts that have high degrees of symmetry.

Construction Line

Before

After

1. Create a new CAD file and use the line and circle sketch tools to create a figure similar to the one shown in the Before image. Exact dimensions are not important. A vertical construction line may be used as the mirror line (You will use it similarly to a line in a revolution.). The top and bottom horizontal edges must terminate (make them coincident) at the vertical mirror line. 2. Use the Mirror sketch tool to mirror the figure across the mirror line. 3. Save the file to your CAD Practice folder as MirrorYourInitials.ipt. Mirror Feature Application Apply R.25 Fillets and .375 Dia. Hole to the extruded part

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II. Create a part according to the above images. Mirror is a function that allows the user to create a mirror image of existing geometry. This function requires an existing feature(s) and a surface or work plane to serve as the mid-plane of symmetry. 1. Create the part using the provided sketch and extrude to a depth of .75. Add the fillets and hole as shown in the figure above. 2. Use the mirror function to apply a mirror image of the existing geometry to the right face of the object as shown. 3. Save the file as Mirror.ipt to your CAD Practice folder. III. Create a solid model to represent the Automoblox connector piece. This part can be modified later to include more details and features. 1. Using your measurements (or the dimensions provided below), sketch the outline profile for one quarter of the face that includes the long rectangle as shown below. Sketch one quarter of the outline profile of the connector piece. Do not sketch the rectangular hole.

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2. Mirror the sketch to create half of the profile.

3. Mirror the sketch a second time to complete the section.

4. Extrude the sketch the appropriate depth according to your measurements. The connector will resemble the solid model below.
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Note that if you have trouble extruding the sketch, you may need to use the Trim tool or Close Loop feature within the sketch to create coincident endpoints between adjacent lines and arcs. To close an open sketch loop, right click on a line and choose close loop, then follow the instructions.

5. Save the file as ConnectorYourInitials.ipt in your CAD Practice folder.

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